Are leaders the gatekeepers of sustainability?

Today’s business organizations are presented with the unique opportunity to increase profitability through CSR and the pursuit of a more sustainable business. To gain and maintain a competitive advantage over the competition, sustainable business leaders are looking for ways to advance the CSR vision by aligning sustainable business strategies through shared values with employees.  As is often stated, employees are the greatest resource of a company.  

Evidence shows that employee engagement matters.  When employees’ values resonate with those of the corporation, they are more productive, loyal, and their work is meaningful.   “Engaged employees are not just committed. They are not just passionate or proud. They have a line-of-sight on their own future and on the organization’s mission and goals. They are enthused and in gear using their talents and discretionary effort to make a difference in their employer’s quest for sustainable business success.”  - Employee Engagement Report.

But what are the engagement tactics required to not only engage employees but empower employees to make a difference in internalizing sustainability and translating high-level commitments into action and results in a corporate sustainability plan? In an attempt to answer these questions, a discussion around leadership may provide the answers. 

Sustainable Leadership: How to Fulfill on the CSR Vision suggests that as a sustainability leader, it's imperative to communicate and demonstrate personal and corporate sustainability at all levels - including your energy, thoughts, expressions around eco awareness and business sustainability.  Emphasizing the importance of sustainability in business, community, and personal lives to employees expands well beyond the boundaries of the organization.